Council Tendering procedures to be reviewed

The Highland Council’s Audit and Scrutiny Committee has called for a review of arrangements for tendering of Council construction contracts. This follows an internal audit examination of the tender process relating to the refurbishment of Pulteney House, Wick.

As a result of concerns about the original tender in March of this year, the contract was re-tendered and there was a four-month delay in the refurbishment proceeding.                               

Councillor David Alston, Chairman of the Audit and Scrutiny Committee, said: “The audit has highlighted a number of shortcomings that will be addressed as a matter of urgency. We will be reviewing the roles and responsibilities of all Council staff and external consultants involved.  The Council’s Contract Standing Orders have been revised and work is in progress to develop the organisational structure of Housing and Property Service. These changes will result in clearer processes and procedures with greater accountability in relation to specific projects.

“The Audit and Scrutiny Committee will review how progress is made on these matters, but I am confident that the changes to be made will improve the overall delivery of the Council programmes.”